Arizona Fall League Preview: Salt River Rafters

It’s no secret that October is the best time of year to be a baseball fan. While we are all glued to our TV screens watching the best players the game has to offer in some of the most dramatic situations you will see on a baseball diamond, the stars of tomorrow are getting some valuable playing time as well. For us prospect junkies, October is not only marked on our calendar because of the MLB playoffs, but also because of the Arizona Fall League. Things kicked off Tuesday afternoon and we highlighted each of the six squads.

A great combination of bat to ball skills and sheer athleticism, Chisholm is a star in the Dbacks organization. He has the defensive ability to stay up the middle and is almost a sure thing to be an everyday major leaguer down the road.

The only thing keeping Nevin’s name from being mentioned more is his injury history. He has advanced plate discipline coupled with the ability to make consistent contact. He struck out just 77 times in 378 at bats last season.

The highlight of the Christian Yelich trade, Harrison posses a good combination of speed and power. With that being said, his 37% strikeout rate last season is a little concerning. He just turned 23 last month so there is plenty of time to try and work that out.

Big bat speed generates big power and Rooker definitely has both of those. I got to watch him a few times in Chattanooga this year and I’m very excited about what this guy will bring to the plate down the road.

Although he is widely regarded as the Diamondbacks top prospect, it doesn’t feel like enough people are talking about him. I don’t think Duplantier will be a shut down front of the line starter by any means, but he should be a consistent middle of the rotation contributor for many years.

Another big piece in the Yelich deal, Yamamoto brings a complete repertoire to the table. He has shown the ability to command all of his pitches, including a low 90’s moving fastball and a good changeup. (You Know I love those changeups.)

Reyes has been in the Nationals system since 2012 and spent the majority of 2018 in Double-A where he struggled a little bit. Reyes is best known for having perhaps the top curveball in the Nats system.

Jake resides in Carrollton, GA and loves everything baseball. He is a lifelong Atlanta Braves fan and enjoys traveling to watch their Minor League teams. He graduated from the University of West Georgia with a Bachelor's Degree in Sport Management. Jake is also a certified personal trainer and has a passion for fitness and weight lifting. You can find his personal site at berrysbaseball.com